Jen and Friends - A Podcast
A casual podcast showcasing what's hot in the west Valley... Goodyear, Buckeye and Litchfield Park in Arizona. Long-time resident, parent, volunteer, and former council member Jen Barber combines her passion for community with her background in broadcasting. Kick back, relax and hear from the positive leaders, neighbors, and parents in the community - the movers and shakers shaping our future.
Jen and Friends - A Podcast
Future of School Choice in Arizona with Surprise Vice Mayor Jack Hastings
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Jen Barber - West Valley Families
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Season 3
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Episode 15
I sat down with Surprise Vice Mayor Jack Hastings to discuss current events, and our conversation turned to competition in education and the future of school choice in Arizona. Hastings, who was first elected to the Surprise City Council in 2020 and re-elected in 2022, has served as Vice Mayor since January 2025. A longtime Surprise resident, Assistant Principal in the Dysart Unified School District, and Arizona State University graduate, Hastings also shares his personal perspective as both an educator and civic leader.
This episode also features insight on school boards from Pam Kirby, Founder and Board President of the Arizona Coalition of School Board Members.
Please send news tips to jen@news2jb.com.
